Pink Cherry Cookies Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Sweet Treats

These Pink Cherry Cookies quickly became one of my favorite go-to treats because they’re so easy to make, yet look like something from a bakery. Using simple pantry staples and just a few cherry-inspired touches. I love making them for holidays, birthdays, or casual get-togethers—anytime I want a dessert that’s as charming as it is tasty. With their soft, tender bite and gentle cherry sweetness, these cookies feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Pink Cherry Cookies Ingredients

Tips for Choosing Ingredients

• Cherries: Fresh or jarred maraschino cherries work best; chop them small so they distribute evenly.
• Butter: Use softened, not melted, for a cookie dough that holds its shape.
• Sugar: Mixing both granulated and brown sugar balances chewiness and structure.
• Flavor Add-Ins: Vanilla is essential, almond extract is optional but gives a bakery-style aroma.

For another sweet treat, check out our Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies recipe.

How to Make Pink Cherry Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
3. Set aside a small bowl of powdered sugar if you plan to roll cookies for a soft, slightly crinkled texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set aside. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents uneven rising.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft.
2. Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries and optional white chocolate chips.
3. Add red or pink food coloring drop by drop until you reach the desired pink hue.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

1. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form small balls of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each).
2. Roll each ball in powdered sugar if desired for a crinkled effect.
3. Place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
2. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.
3. Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Pink Cherry Cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a glass of milk or tea.
2. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Texture, Flavor, and Custom Variations

Soft, Chewy, or Crisp: How to Control Texture

• Soft and Chewy: Bake the cookies for the shorter end of the time range (10 minutes). Ensure the centers are slightly underbaked and allow them to finish cooking on the baking sheet.
• Crisp Edges with Tender Centers: Bake for 11–12 minutes. Using a mix of granulated and brown sugar helps create a slightly crisp edge while keeping the inside soft.
• Crisp Cookies: Extend baking by a minute or two and use slightly more granulated sugar than brown sugar. These cookies are perfect for stacking or gift boxes.

Flavor Variations

• Cherry Almond Cookies: Add ½ tsp almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor.
• White Chocolate Cherry: Fold in white chocolate chips for creamy bites.
• Chocolate Cherry: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies.
• Pink Sugar-Coated: Roll dough in pink sanding sugar instead of powdered sugar for sparkle and extra sweetness.

Try our Valentine Strawberry Cookies for more quick recipe ideas.

Serving Ideas and Pairings for Cherry Cookies

Holiday, Party, and Everyday Serving Ideas

• Holiday Cookie Trays: Arrange Pink Cherry Cookies alongside chocolate-dipped pretzels, peppermint bark, or sugar cookies for a festive dessert board.
• Birthday Parties: Place them in small decorative cups or on tiered trays for easy self-serving.
• Afternoon Snacks: Pair with a warm cup of tea, hot cocoa, or milk for a cozy treat.

Kid-Friendly & After-School Treat Pairings

• Serve Pink Cherry Cookies with fresh fruit, like strawberries or grapes, for a balanced snack plate.
• Pack a couple of cookies with a small thermos of milk for an after-school pick-me-up.
• These cookies are soft, sweet, and easy for little hands to enjoy without mess, making them perfect for lunchboxes or family snack time.

Creative Presentation Tips

• Stack and Tie: Stack 3–4 cookies and tie with a ribbon for gifting or a party favor.
• Cookie Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting or cherry jam between two cookies.
• Decorative Drizzle: Melt white chocolate or lightly colored pink glaze and drizzle over cooled cookies for added elegance and appeal.

Pink Cherry Cookies

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• Author: Angie
• Total Time: 27 mins
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Soft, chewy Pink Cherry Cookies with a vibrant cherry flavor and pastel pink color, perfect for holidays, parties, or cozy everyday treats.

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Ingredients

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• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
• 3–4 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (optional, for rolling)
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Beat butter with sugars until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until combined. Fold in cherries, optional chocolate chips, and food coloring.
5. Scoop dough into 1.5-tablespoon balls, roll in powdered sugar if desired, and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
6. Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
7. Cool on sheets 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks. Store in airtight container up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 12 mins

FAQs About Pink Cherry Cookies

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes! Fresh cherries work well, but make sure to pit and chop them finely. You may need to slightly reduce added sugar if using very sweet cherries.

How do I keep Pink Cherry Cookies soft?

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature with a slice of bread to retain moisture. Avoid overbaking and remove from the oven when centers are slightly underbaked.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check that the blend includes xanthan gum for proper texture.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes! White chocolate chips, slivered almonds, or even small chocolate chunks complement the cherry flavor beautifully. Fold them in gently to avoid breaking the dough.

How do I achieve the bright pink color?

Use a few drops of red or pink food coloring. Alternatively, maraschino cherry juice can naturally tint the dough pink, but the intensity may vary depending on the cherries.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes. Scoop dough balls onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Conclusion

Pink Cherry Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a cozy, visually delightful dessert that brings color and joy to any occasion. With their soft, chewy texture and burst of cherry flavor, these cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, or simple everyday indulgence. They are easy enough for beginners, yet versatile enough to customize with chocolate chips, almond extract, or a festive drizzle.By following this guide, you can make, store, and serve them with confidence, ensuring each cookie comes out perfectly pink, soft, and delicious.